It came ahead of the three-month Towergate Accumulator Challenge, which sees businesses receive £50 to turn into as much money as possible for the hospice.

Already, more than 35 firms have signed up for the initiative, which launches on June 19.

Last year, 49 businesses faced each other and turned their money into £40,243 for the hospice.

Paul Whittaker, chief executive of event sponsors Towergate Insurance, said: “It is a fantastic event, both in terms of helping to raise money and for companies to have a great deal of fun over the summer months, helping to build team spirit in their business while supporting a great charity. We’re determined to beat last year and get to the magical £50,000 mark.”